A VINTAGE tractor enthusiast and a prominent figure in Welsh affairs are among new Welsh Associates of the Royal Agricultural Societies.

Edwin Edward Hughes, of Cornist Ganol Farm, Flint, was nominated for his work with the Wynnstay Group as it progressed from a farmers cooperative to a PLC.

Currently vice-chairman of the company, he believes farmers should have a strong voice – and financial stake – in the supply chain.

In Flintshire he is perhaps best known for his collection vintage tractors – he has 11 specimens, three of which are pre-1930 models. He was among a group of enthusiasts who formed the Flintshire Vintage and Classic Tractor Society.

His other main commitment is as chairman of Flintshire magistrates. Recently he was involved in developing the protocol for the use of the Welsh language in magistrates’ courts in Wales, which is now operational.

Also made an RAS Associate is John Lloyd Jones, chairman of the Countryside Council for Wales.

Mr Jones, OBE, of Tywyn, was recognised for two decades of service to farming and the environment.

A former chairman of NFU Wales, he has chaired a succession of agricultural, forestry and land use organisations since 1988.

He was also involved in setting up the Welsh Food Strategy, chairing its Lamb and Beef working group. Few strategies, from Farming Connect to Tir Gofal and the Farming for the Future, have escaped his eye.

Mr Jones has established a tourism business with a farmhouse B&B, five holiday cottages and a small caravan park at Hendy Farm. He also is an honorary fellow of Bangor University.

Two other new RAS Associates are John T Davies of Eglwyswrw, Crymych, and DE Meurig James, of Whitland.